Definition
Differential reinforcement of low rates of responding (DRL) is a procedure in which the implementer can lower the rate of a response by reinforcing fewer incidents of that response or by reinforcing longer time intervals between incidents of the response. For example, if an individual makes profanity statements an average of 20 times per half hour, an interventionist could provide a positive reinforcer contingent upon that individual making these statements 18 or fewer times per half hour.
A related term is differential reinforcement of diminishing rates (DRD). The technical difference between DRL and DRD is that in DRD, reinforcement follows a response that has been preceded by a minimum amount of time since the last response. DRL technically refers to providing reinforcement for fewer and fewer responses exhibited by the individual. However, DRL is the most common term and often refers to both of these procedures.
Historical Background
The three general areas of concern...
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Zane, T., Davis, C. (2020). Differential Reinforcement of Low Rates of Responding (DRL). In: Volkmar, F. (eds) Encyclopedia of Autism Spectrum Disorders. Springer, New York, NY. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-1-4614-6435-8_1905-3
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DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/978-1-4614-6435-8_1905-3
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